Astro Bot: Snapping the Perfect Shot of Legendary Explorers

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Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach

Astro Bot on PS5 delivers a delightful platforming adventure packed with collectibles, secrets, and playful trophies. One standout achievement, **Thick As Thieves**, requires players to photograph two iconic explorer bots together in the game’s central hub, Crash Site. This guide breaks down every step, from accessing photo mode to positioning the characters for success.

Understanding the Thick As Thieves Challenge

The **Thick As Thieves** trophy honors the spirit of adventure by tasking you with capturing Nathan Drake from Uncharted and Lara Croft from Tomb Raider as Astro Bot variants. These aren’t just cameos; they’re fully animated bots that roam the Crash Site once rescued. The catch? They must appear in the same frame using the in-game camera—screenshots via PS5’s share button won’t count.

This trophy typically unlocks mid-game after progressing through early galaxies, as it demands specific bot rescues and hub upgrades. It’s straightforward yet finicky, often requiring multiple attempts to get the bots aligned properly.

Prerequisites: Rescuing the Explorer Bots

Before snapping photos, locate and free both bots from their levels. Here’s where to find them:

  • Nathan Drake Bot: Automatically rescued upon completing the “Dude Raiding” stage in the Serpent Galaxy. No extra effort needed beyond finishing the level.
  • Lara Croft Bot: Found in the Hieroglitch Pyramid level. Progress to the area with three massive smashing blocks. After the final block, destroy vases in the alcove to reveal a blue drill spot on the ground. Hold Square to burrow down and rescue her.

Once freed, return to Crash Site. Lara often circles the Mothership energetically, while Nathan lingers near specific spots. Confirm their presence by exploring the hub.

Unlocking Photo Mode in Crash Site

Photo mode is essential and tied to hub development. Collect **64 puzzle pieces** total to construct the Safari Park, the fourth major building in Crash Site. Thorough level completions, especially in early areas like Camo Cosmos, should yield enough pieces naturally.

Steps to build and access:

  1. Gather puzzle pieces from planets and levels.
  2. Once at 64, Safari Park auto-builds near the hub center.
  3. Enter the park and grab the camera item directly ahead.
  4. Photo mode now activates with **Up on D-Pad** anywhere in Crash Site.

Pro tip: If short on pieces, replay levels with high yields or check optional challenges. This upgrade also enables fun bot photography beyond the trophy.

Step-by-Step: Capturing the Duo

With bots rescued and camera unlocked, head to Crash Site. The process is simple but demands patience:

  1. Press **Triangle** to summon all rescued bots to your location. They’ll crowd around Astro Bot.
  2. Spot Nathan Drake and Lara Croft amid the group. Gently punch or nudge (light attacks) to maneuver them closer—side-by-side isn’t mandatory, but both must fit clearly in frame.
  3. Hold **Up on D-Pad** to enter photo mode.
  4. Adjust angle for optimal framing. No zoom-out available, so position yourself strategically.
  5. Press **R2** to snap. If valid, the trophy pops instantly; photos save to your PS5 gallery.

Troubleshooting common issues:

  • Trophy not popping? Ensure both are visible and not obscured. Try tighter shots or recall bots with Triangle.
  • Bots drifting apart? Stand behind Nathan; wait for Lara to loop into view naturally.
  • Separate photos fail: Must be one image with both—no individual shots qualify.

Visualizing Bot Locations and Positions

Use this table for quick reference on key elements:

ElementLocation/DetailsAction Required
Nathan DrakeAuto-unlock: Dude Raiding stageComplete level
Lara CroftHieroglitch Pyramid, post-smashing blocksDrill blue cross under vases
Photo ModeSafari Park (64 pieces)Grab camera inside
Summon BotsCrash Site anywherePress Triangle
Snap PhotoUp D-Pad + R2Frame both explorers

Tips for Trophy Hunters and Completionists

Beyond basics, optimize your play:

  • Early Unlock Timing: Prioritize Hieroglitch Pyramid after Dude Raiding. By end of first galaxy, everything aligns.
  • Gallery Perks: Captured shots auto-save, letting you relive moments or share online.
  • Hub Management: Keep Crash Site tidy; fewer bots initially make spotting explorers easier before full collection.
  • Controller Precision: Use steady hands for nudging—over-aggression scatters them.

For 100% completion, this trophy slots into broader bot rescue and puzzle hunts, enhancing immersion in Astro Bot’s vibrant universe.

Why This Trophy Captures Astro Bot’s Charm

Astro Bot shines through clever crossovers like Drake and Croft, nodding to PlayStation legacy. The photo mechanic adds whimsy, turning players into directors amid adorable chaos. It’s not just a checkmark; it’s a celebration of gaming icons reimagined as pint-sized pals.

Challenges like bot positioning test observation, mirroring platforming demands elsewhere. Success feels rewarding, especially amid the game’s joyful soundtrack and visuals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need all bots rescued for this trophy?

No, only Nathan and Lara. Others appear when summoning but aren’t required.

What if photo mode won’t activate?

Verify 64 puzzle pieces and Safari Park construction. Re-enter hub if glitched.

Can I do this before finishing the game?

Yes, early-game viable post-first galaxy levels.

Why won’t the trophy pop despite both in frame?

Adjust angle closer or recall bots. Ensure no UI overlap.

Does PS5 share button work?

No—must use in-game camera exclusively.

Advanced Photo Mode Features

Post-trophy, experiment freely. Photo mode offers framing tools sans filters, perfect for bot galleries. Position groups for epic hubs or solo portraits. Saves integrate with PS5 media, ideal for social shares.

Integrates with trophies like bot collection, encouraging full exploration. Astro Bot’s photo system rivals bigger titles, proving small packages pack big fun.

References

  1. How To Capture a Photo of Two Legendary Explorers in Astro Bot — Escapist Magazine. 2024-09-15. https://www.escapistmagazine.com/how-to-capture-a-photo-of-two-legendary-explorers-in-astro-bot/
  2. Astro Bot – Thick As Thieves Trophy (Captured A Photo Of …) — YouTube (GGRecon). 2024-09-10.
  3. How to capture a photo of two legendary explorers in Astro Bot — GGRecon. 2024-09-12. https://www.ggrecon.com/guides/astro-bot-thick-as-thieves-trophy/
  4. Astro Bot Thick As Thieves Trophy Guide (Captured a …) — YouTube. 2024-09-11.
  5. Astro Bot – Thick As Thieves Trophy Guide (PS5) — YouTube (PowerPyx). 2024-09-13.
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